Where to Find the Best Affordable Meals
Eating well on a budget isn’t just about cheap fast food. Many cities have hidden gems and local secrets that let you enjoy delicious meals without overpaying. Here’s how to find and experience the best food in your city like a local.
1. Look for Worker’s Lunch Spots
Ever noticed small restaurants packed with construction workers, office employees, or taxi drivers? That’s because local workers know where to get the best value—fresh, home-style meals at non-tourist prices. These places often have fixed-price menus that include a main dish, side, and drink for far less than standard restaurants.
🔎 Find hidden worker’s cafés on MonkeySet by filtering for “local favorites” in your area.
2. Discover Ethnic and Family-Run Restaurants
Family-run spots—especially those serving Middle Eastern, Asian, or South American cuisine—often offer generous portions and authentic flavors at unbeatable prices. Skip the big-name chains and explore lesser-known neighborhoods where these gems are hidden.
💡 Tip: Ethiopian restaurants often serve all-you-can-eat injera platters for the price of a single dish elsewhere!
3. Go for “Cicchetti,” Tapas, or Mezze
Some cities have a culture of small plates that allow you to sample different dishes without committing to a full meal. In Italy, Venice’s “cicchetti” bars serve gourmet snacks for a few euros. In Spain, some bars give free tapas with a drink. In Greece and the Middle East, mezze platters offer variety at low cost.
🐒 Check MonkeySet for bars that still serve free tapas in your area!
4. Find Late-Night “Leftover” Deals
Bakeries, sushi restaurants, and supermarkets often discount fresh food in the evening rather than throwing it away. Some even participate in apps like Too Good To Go, where you can buy surplus meals at huge discounts.
🕵️ Use MonkeySet to find spots in your city that offer end-of-day discounts!
